During Gamescom, I was able to interview Tim Lamb, lead creative producer Starfield, to talk about the upcoming Shattered Space expansion. Want to learn more about this addition to the vast Starfield world? Let’s jump in!
What can you tell us about the inspiration behind this DLC? What made you want to expand Starfield in this particular direction?
Tim Lamb: Well, after the main game launched, we got a ton of feedback from the community. Players loved the vastness of space and the freedom to explore, but we also heard a lot of requests for more narrative-driven content. They wanted stories that felt personal and impactful, something that would draw them even deeper into the universe. So, that was really our starting point. We wanted to create a DLC that expanded the universe in a meaningful way, but also delivered a narrative experience that felt rich and engaging.
So, what can players expect in terms of storyline? Any hints or teasers about what they’ll be getting into?
Tim Lamb: Definitely! While I can’t spoil too much, I can tell you that this DLC is going to take players to a brand-new sector of space; one that hasn’t been explored in the main game. It’s a region that’s been shrouded in mystery, with a deep and complex history that players will uncover as they go. This area is strongly tied to the Va’Ruun House, a faction that many players were intrigued by in the main game. The Va’Ruun are devoted followers of the Great Serpent, a religious belief that shapes everything they do. In this DLC, players will dive deeper into their culture, their motives, and the power struggles within the House.
The Va’Ruun House was such a mysterious faction in the main game. How does the DLC explore their relationship with the Great Serpent and the rest of the Starfield universe?
Tim Lamb: The Va’Ruun House and their belief in the Great Serpent play a central role in this DLC. The faction has always been on the fringes, with their faith and practices often misunderstood or outright feared by others in the galaxy. In the DLC, players will be able to explore their sacred sites, uncover the origins of their beliefs, and see how the Great Serpent influences their decisions. There’s a power struggle within the faction itself, between those who adhere to the traditional ways and those who believe it’s time for a change. Players will have to navigate these internal conflicts, and their choices could determine the future of the Va’Ruun House.
How does this new content integrate with the existing game? Will it be something that players can access early on, or is it more geared towards those who have progressed further in the game?
Tim Lamb: The DLC is definitely designed with more experienced players in mind. We wanted to make sure that the challenges and the story feel appropriately scaled for those who have already invested time into building up their characters. That being said, it’s integrated into the main game in a way that feels seamless. Players who are at the right point in their journey will find that this new content fits naturally into the world they’re already exploring.
You mentioned ancient ruins and lost technologies. Does that mean we can expect new gameplay mechanics or systems being introduced in this DLC?
Tim Lamb: Absolutely. We’ve added a few new mechanics that we’re really excited about. For example, there are new zero-gravity combat scenarios that really change the dynamics of how you approach fights. It adds a layer of strategy that wasn’t there before. We’ve also introduced new ship customization options, which allow players to really tailor their vessels to their playstyle. And on the exploration front, there are new tools and gadgets that will help players interact with the environment in deeper, more meaningful ways.
How does the new area compare to the rest of the game in terms of size and content?
Tim Lamb: The new sector we’ve created is pretty substantial. It’s not as large as the entire galaxy, obviously, but it’s densely packed with content. We focused on making sure that every corner of this new area feels alive and has something for players to discover. Whether it’s hidden side quests, unique encounters, or just the sheer beauty of the landscapes, there’s a lot to keep players engaged. It’s less about sheer size and more about the depth of the experience.
How did you go about making this new sector feel distinct and fresh compared to the rest of the game?
Tim Lamb: Our art and audio teams really knocked it out of the park with this one. Visually, we wanted this sector to stand out, so you’ll notice a lot of vibrant colors and unique environmental features that give it its own identity. The landscapes are more diverse, and we’ve played with lighting in ways that really enhance the mood of different areas. On the audio side, we created a soundscape that reflects the mysterious and often eerie nature of this region. The music, the ambient sounds; it’s all designed to keep players on their toes and fully immersed in the experience.
What aspect of the DLC are you most excited for players to experience?
Tim Lamb: For me, it’s the story. We’ve worked hard to craft a narrative that we think will surprise players and challenge their perceptions of the Starfield universe. There are some big twists and turns, especially around the Va’Ruun House and the Great Serpent, that I can’t wait to see how players react to. We really wanted to make something that would stay with players long after they’ve finished the DLC.
Is there anything else you want to share with the fans eagerly awaiting this DLC?
Tim Lamb: Just that we’ve put a lot of heart and soul into this DLC. We’ve listened to the community, and we think this expansion will really resonate with fans. It’s been a labor of love, and we can’t wait for you all to experience it. Thanks again for having me; it’s been great talking with you.
